The Maldives is the ultimate destination for swimming with manta and devil rays, two majestic creatures that are often misunderstood. While these fish may look intimidating with their horn-shaped fins and whip-like tails, they are not aggressive towards humans. In fact, the Maldives is home to a population of 6,000 manta rays, making it the best place in the world to see these gentle giants in the wild. The country’s manta tourism industry contributes $8.1 million annually to the economy.
The Manta Trust, a UK charity with an office near the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, is dedicated to the conservation of manta rays. The organization offers an annual Manta Retreat for visitors to learn more about these endangered creatures and participate in conservation efforts. The resort is located near Maamunagau lagoon, the first recorded nursery site for mantas in the Maldives, providing guests with the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
During a snorkeling excursion in the Maldives, a guest encounters a young manta ray named Zoomie, a 1,500-pound filter feeder that eats plankton. Though initially wary of the manta’s large size and open mouth, the guest learns that their throat is only the size of a closed fist and their teeth are used for mating, not feeding. The importance of protecting manta rays is highlighted, as their extinction could have a significant impact on the oceanic food chain.
Visitors to the Maldives are encouraged to participate in the Manta Trust’s citizen science program, which helps monitor the movements and behavior of the manta rays in Maamunagau lagoon. By taking photos and reporting sightings, tourists can contribute valuable data to aid in conservation efforts. Swimming with manta rays in the Maldives provides a unique opportunity for tourists to witness the benefits of marine conservation firsthand, supporting the preservation of these magnificent creatures.
Manta rays have been protected in the Maldives since 2010, with strict regulations in place to prevent their exploitation. While manta gill meat is highly sought after in parts of Asia for its perceived medicinal properties, it is not consumed in the Maldives. The country has made significant strides in manta conservation, creating a safe environment for these endangered species to thrive.
The Maldives offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with manta and devil rays in their natural habitat, providing a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. Through education, conservation efforts, and responsible tourism, the Maldives is leading the way in protecting these magnificent creatures and ensuring their survival for future generations to enjoy. Swimming with manta rays in the Maldives is not only a thrilling adventure but also a chance to contribute to the important work of preserving these iconic marine animals.
